Gusseted Pouch Single Web Zipper Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gusseted packages typically have limited access due to sealed gussets, making it difficult to open and reseal, especially for smaller sizes, which restricts product dispensing and increases manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A reclosable gusseted pouch with a single web multiple-alignment zipper integrated within the internal perimeter, allowing both front and back panels to open, providing a large opening equal to the pouch's internal diameter, and reducing production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If gussets are sealed together in prior art packages, then the package structure is simple and manufacturing is easier, but access to contents is limited and only front panel opening is possible
Solution Approach 1:
The zipper is divided into multiple independent tracks (first track, second track, third track) that can operate separately. This segmentation allows the front panel to open independently from the back panel, enabling full access to contents while maintaining a structured manufacturing process for each individual track.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-plane sealing approach to a multi-dimensional zipper system that wraps around the pouch perimeter. The multiple tracks are positioned at different locations and orientations, creating a three-dimensional sealing network that enables opening from both front and back panels while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate zippers are used to enable front and back panel opening, then access to contents is improved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple zipper tracks that would traditionally require separate components and assembly steps are merged into a single integrated zipper web. This single web contains all necessary tracks (first, second, and third tracks) with interlocking elements positioned to enable both front and back panel opening, significantly simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The single zipper web performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing for the front panel, sealing for the back panel, and structural support for the gussets. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate zipper components and reduces the overall complexity of the manufacturing process.
3Volume of stationary object
If gussets are sealed together in traditional packages, then manufacturing is simpler, but volumetric capacity and opening size are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The zipper structure is segmented into multiple tracks positioned at different locations around the pouch perimeter. This segmentation allows the gussets to remain sealed together for structural integrity and volumetric capacity, while the distributed tracks enable opening at multiple points (front and back panels) without compromising the overall pouch structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A reclosable gusseted bag is disclosed wherein a single web multiple alignment zipper is placed around the interior of the mouth of the bag, downwardly adjacent from the upper edge of the front panel, rear panel and side gussets thereby resulting in an increased size of opening as the mouth of the gusseted bag. The use of a single web multiple alignment zipper allows opposing portions of the web to engage each other within a range of alignments thereby allowing for simplified use by the consumer.